I got my manitou for a killer deal at Jenson at the end of November. It was 150 before shipping which is a fantastic deal for this fork. It uses the same stanchions as their more expensive model forks. So far, I love this fork, it is super plush and sounds too cool as its in use. It gives off a real cool air sound effect as its in use. Highly recomend for the rider who's looking to just put on a quality fork that can take most anything you throw at it and not have to mess with anything else. I think that a coil fork is the softest ride you can get, but you do sacrifice the adjustibility of an air shock.